On August 12, 2023, in Itanagar, Government of India and the Arunachal Pradesh Government inked a series of agreements to revive and re-launch 12 halted hydro-electric projects in Arunachal Pradesh. These agreements pertain to a collective capacity of 11,517 MW, which the state intends to handover to the Central Public Sector Units.
The Union Minister for Power and New & Renewable Energy, Shri R.K. Singh, Arunachal Pradesh’s Chief Minister, Shri Pema Khandu, its Deputy Chief Minister, Shri Chowna Mein, Union Power Secretary Pankaj Agarwal were present at the MoU signing ceremony.
During his address, Shri R.K. Singh emphasized the significance of these hydro projects to Arunachal’s economy. He compared the state’s potential to developed nations like the USA, Canada, and Norway, which have maximized almost 90 percent of their hydro potential. Singh highlighted how hydropower, a sustainable energy source, not only increases groundwater levels but also aids in the growth of local ecosystems.
Details of the MoU signed:
- Five projects (2,620 MW) are entrusted to the North Eastern Electric Power Corporation Ltd. (NEEPCO).
- Five projects (5,097 MW) are assigned to Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam Ltd. (SJVN).
- The remaining two projects (3,800 MW) go to the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC).
Originally, these projects were handed over to private entities around 15 years ago. However, due to multiple constraints, they didn’t progress, prompting the state to engage with Central Hydro Public Sector Units.
This initiative aligns with India’s goal to attain a non-fossil energy capacity of 500 GW by 2030 and to be net-zero in carbon emissions by 2070. Beyond the environmental benefits, the local community stands to gain immensely. These projects could usher in an investment of approximately Rs 1,26,500 crores into Arunachal Pradesh, creating a plethora of job opportunities, enhancing local economies, and fostering skill growth in the region.
Image Credit: PIB.gov.in
